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City Will Convert Majority of Diesel Fuel Vehicle Fleet to Biodiesel (B-20)

The City’s Fleet Services Division has been conducting a Biodiesel (B-20) fuel pilot program at one of its fueling facilities on a select number of diesel trucks since July 17, 2006, with no reported vehicle performance or maintenance issues.

Biodiesel is a clean burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic, renewable resources. It contains no petroleum, but can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel to create a Biodiesel blend. The pilot program has been deemed a success and the City intends to convert the vast majority of its diesel vehicle fleet to B-20. A new fuel contract was awarded to Pro Fuels effective October 1, 2006.

“This successful pilot project is an important step forward in expanding the City’s use of alternative fuels,” said Ward 6 Council Member Nina Trasoff. “I commend our Fleet Services Division for their hard work on this project.”

The benefits of B-20 include reduced dependence on foreign oil, lower vehicle emissions, improved fuel lubricity, and lower cost. The City will use approximately 200,000 gallons less of foreign oil per year while contributing to our country’s economic growth. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, B-20 powered vehicles produce an average 14% less cancer causing particulate matter, 8% less ozone depleting hydrocarbons, 9% less smog forming carbon monoxide, and 20% less sulfur oxides and sulfates (acid rain components). As sulfur content is removed from regular diesel fuel to meet EPA requirements, the lubrication provided by the fuel to the fuel system components is decreased. B-20 adds lubricity, which will improve engine and fuel system component longevity. The City’s cost of B-20 currently averages about 5 cents per gallon less than regular diesel fuel.

Note to media: Pro Petroleum will fill a City diesel fuel storage tank with Biodiesel (B-20) at the Thomas O. Price Service Center, 4004 S. Park Ave., on Monday, October 9, at 2 PM. Following that, some City fleet vehicles will fill up with the new blend. Media representatives are invited onsite to take photographs and video, and obtain more information. Please contact Gary Lowe at 791-3131 for directions and parking arrangements.